Sossusvlei

In addition to the main dunes Big Daddy, Dune 45 and Elim, Sossusvlei is characterized by the salt pans Hidden Vlei, Dead Vlei and Nara Vlei. While the word Sossus can be translated as "river of no return", Vlei means "shallow lake". Like many other rivers, the Tsauchab eventually seeped into the sand and turned into an expanse of salt and clay. The pattern created by the cracks almost resembles a work of art. Every ten years or so, rainfall provides enough water to bring the lake back to life. For a few weeks, the desert also awakens, with waterfowl, springbok and antelopes visiting the area around the waterhole.

Dune landscape

One of three coastal deserts in the world, the Namib Desert stretches from Angola in the north to Namibia in the south. With a total length of 2,000 kilometers and an area of 95,000 square kilometers, it is impressive in size. The extreme climatic conditions are characteristic: Hot temperatures during the day, frost at night, years of drought, regular sandstorms and lots of fog are characteristic of the Namib Desert. The flora and fauna have learned to adapt accordingly.

Whether on guided hikes, jeep tours or quad bike rides - the landscape can be explored in many ways. The famous red sand dunes in particular, which are over 300 meters high, should be climbed on foot. Dune 45 in particular is easy to climb and promises a great perspective.

As soon as the sunrise seems to merge with the shimmering golden Namib Desert, it is time for a very special experience: a hot air balloon ride. From a bird's eye view, the impressive expanse of the landscape is revealed in all its glory. If you feel too nervous at this height in the open air, you can also opt for a sheltered flight in a helicopter or small plane.

Dead Vlei

When pyramid-like dunes line the road and dead camel thorn trees reach up to the sky, you have arrived at Dead Vlei. This is where the Tsauchab once ended, its jagged white soil providing a rich contrast to the golden-brown desert and the azure blue sky. After new dunes formed, the river took a different route and today's Dead Vlei was left behind. This fascinating area attracts curious visitors day after day by off-road vehicle.

Sesriem Canyon

The gorges of the Sesriem Canyon reveal millions of years old rock that drills up to thirty meters deep into the earth over a length of around one kilometer. This force of nature can be experienced up close via a path leading to the descent. While admiring the imposing rock faces, you can enjoy the coolness that emanates from the shady rocks.

Flora and fauna

Waterfowl, springbok and antelope are joined by a whole range of other animal species. Beetles, spiders, snakes, reptiles such as geckos and chameleons, desert foxes, ostriches, leopards, hyenas, mountain zebras and weaverbirds can be found around Sossusvlei.

Due to the extreme climate, robust vegetation has developed. The Welwitschie plant, which is found exclusively in Sossusvlei, consists of a single pair of leaves that can grow several meters long and live for up to ten years. It sticks out of the ground tall and flat. Pumpkin plants such as Nara melons, which serve as food for the animals, as well as camel thorn trees, which easily tolerate heat and frost, complete the Namibian plant world.

Sossusvlei offers a variety of accommodation options. Whether lodges, guest farms or self-catering accommodation - they all have one thing in common: the breathtaking backdrop of the coastal desert. A particularly pure feeling is created when camping. Numerous campsites in this area make adventurers' hearts beat faster.

As is typical of the desert, Sossusvlei is dry and warm to hot throughout the year. The months of December to April are considered the hottest months with an average of 26.5 degrees. In January and February in particular, temperatures often reach over forty degrees. From May to November it is quite pleasant with an average of 21 to 25 degrees. Only at night can it actually get cold enough to cause frost. Ideally, the end of the African summer season and the beginning of the winter season (April to June) are ideal for a trip. Those who are surprised by rain during the year can even count themselves lucky: This event, which only occurs every few years, is a special feature that fills the salt pans with water and brings some greenery to the desert landscape.